The London Philatelic Society and the Middlesex Stamp Club, both based in London, Ont., have merged with the first official meeting of the new organization set for Aug. 25.
Stamp collecting has been alive and well in London for more than 160 years. Early newspaper reports show stamp collecting was part of the Provincial Exhibition held in London in 1862. On a more formal basis, the London Philatelic Club was formed in 1892. From these humble beginnings, the hobby grew and in 1924 was re-organized as the London Philatelic Society. The club’s main project at that time was the sponsorship of a stamp show at the Western Fair as a part of the fair’s newly formed hobby department.
The society has operated continuously every year, meeting twice a month.
MIDDLESEX STAMP CLUB
In 1950, 11 members of the London Philatelic Society decided to form a second club in the city.
The members organized the Middlesex Stamp Circle with a constitution placing an emphasis on the development of amateur philately through “co-operative study, discussion and good fellowship,” according to organizers. This has since been the theme of its meetings, held twice a month from September to May.
As the times changed, whispers began questioning the need for two stamp clubs in London.
“As the whispers grew louder and demographics changed, both clubs decided the time for re-unification had arrived.”
This spring, members of both clubs unanimously decided to join forces. The London Middlesex Stamp Club was born with the first official meeting scheduled for Aug. 25.
For more details, visit the club website londonmiddlesexstampclub.ca. Further information is also available from club President John Hyland at johnehyland@gmail.com.